Rio Ferdinand Joins FOX Sports for 2026 World Cup Coverage
Rio Ferdinand has officially landed a new role ahead of the 2026 World Cup. He is another former Manchester United figure securing a high-profile position linked to this summer’s tournament. The former United defender has remained heavily involved in football since his retirement. He has been very vocal in his support of Michael Carrick. This is following his appointment as interim Manchester United manager earlier this year after Ruben Amorim’s sacking.
Several former United names are now being lined up for World Cup coverage roles too. Peter Schmeichel was recently confirmed as part of FOX Sports’ wider coverage team. Antonio Valencia also secured a punditry role with Telemundo Deportes ahead of the tournament in North America. Rio Ferdinand has never been far away from headlines either. Back in 2012, the former England international was involved in a Liverpool-star/”>heated altercation with ex-Liverpool player Dirk Kuyt following a fiery clash between Manchester United and Liverpool. Now, the former centre-back has officially been appointed to a new World Cup role.
FOX Sports announced on X that the former Manchester United defender will co-host a brand-new late-night programme alongside James Corden and comedian Ian Karmel during the 2026 World Cup. The show is titled “FIFA World Cup on FOX After Hours with James Corden”. It will begin on June 11, the same day the tournament officially kicks off. FOX Sports also released promotional artwork showing Ferdinand, Corden and Karmel as table football figures. Ferdinand previously worked extensively with TNT Sports after retiring from football before leaving the broadcaster last summer. During his legendary spell at United, Ferdinand made over 450 appearances.
He won six Premier League titles, three League Cups, the UEFA Champions League and the FIFA Club World Cup under Sir Alex Ferguson. He also represented England at three separate World Cups across his international career. Now, Ferdinand is preparing for another World Cup appearance. This time, though, it will be in the studio rather than on the pitch.